Economical boating, free parking at Renuka from April 1

Come April 1 and visitors would have to pay less for boating in Renuka lake, besides free parking of vehicles and 'parikrama'.

Earlier the tourists were being charged for taking a round of the holy lake and for parking of vehicles. From April 1, a four-seater boat would be available for Rs 300 for three hours. Also, vehicles would be able to enter the Lion Safari for free.

The minister for forest and wildlife Thakur Singh Bharmouri had assured the withdrawal of said charges on January 26 at Nahan.

The Renuka wetland is covered with vegetation of sub-tropical forest comprising chhal, sain, bahera, harar, kachnar, tun, shisham and amaltas etc. Sal forests exist in the northern side of the wetland. Although Renuka catchment is a small area of 500 hectares, yet it harbours a large variety of wildlife such as ghoral, kakkar, chital, hare, porcupine, black bear, monkey and languor etc.

A local resident, Deepak Joshi, said the wetland also preserved aquatic life, besides habitat to many local and migratory birds. Since the place had a religious and wildlife significance, thousands of people came here only to get disappointed because of excessive charges.

Meanwhile, Swami Dayan has welcomed the decision to waive off the charges at the religious place.

SDM and member secretary of Renuka Vikas Board, Jyoti Rana, said the decision to lowr the boating charges, free parking and 'parikrama' had been taken in the interest of the visitors